Zesty Citrus Chicken Delight

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 20 min
🍽 Serves: 4
★★★★★
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If you're looking to shake up your dinner routine with a burst of flavor, this Zesty Citrus Chicken Delight is your answer. It combines juicy chicken thighs with a tangy and sweet orange-based sauce that dances on your taste buds.

Ingredients for Zesty Citrus Chicken Delight

The star of our dish, chicken thighs, are chosen for their juiciness and rich flavor. They hold up well to the bold sauce. The orange juice provides that vibrant citrus zing, while the soy sauce adds depth and a savory undertone. Add a touch of sweetness with honey, which also helps the sauce to glaze beautifully. Rice vinegar introduces a mild tang, balancing the sweetness. Sesame oil lends a nutty aroma, enhancing the Asian-inspired elements. Minced garlic and ginger add warmth and spice, while crushed red pepper flakes bring a gentle heat. A cornstarch slurry thickens the sauce to the perfect consistency. Finally, green onions and sesame seeds provide freshness and a delightful crunch.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the sauce for 20 minutes before cooking.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
  • To avoid clumping, always mix cornstarch with cold water before adding to a hot dish.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of stir-fried vegetables, like broccoli or bell peppers, complements the flavors and adds a healthy crunch. For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breast, but be mindful not to overcook as they tend to dry out faster than thighs.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Zesty Citrus Chicken Delight Recipe Walkthrough

Start by cutting the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces. This ensures they cook evenly and quickly, perfect for our speedy dish. Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor. Next, in a medium bowl, combine orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, and crushed red pepper flakes. This is your flavor-packed marinade.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces. Cook them until they are browned on all sides. This should take about 5–7 minutes. Browning them well now adds a delicious layer of flavor to the final dish.

Pour the prepared orange sauce over the browned chicken. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Add this to the skillet and stir until the sauce thickens to your liking. This should take just a couple of minutes. Lastly, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds over the top before serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • A perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors.
  • Quick to prepare — on your table in under 30 minutes.
  • Uses simple, easily available ingredients.
  • Great for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
1/2 cup fresh orange juice
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup honey
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ginger, minced
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
1 tbsp cornstarch
2 green onions, chopped
1 tbsp sesame seeds
2 tbsp vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a bowl, mix together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
3. In a skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat and add the chicken pieces. Cook until browned on all sides.
4. Pour the orange sauce over the chicken and bring to a simmer.
5. Mix cornstarch with a small amount of water to create a slurry, and add it to the skillet. Stir until the sauce thickens.
6. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

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